GAFCON demands that Justin Welby publicly repent
The Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON) has called on Archbishop Justin Welby to publicly repent for endorsing same-sex blessings, claiming his stance contradicts the traditional 'doctrine of Christ’. In a recent podcast, Welby advocated for allowing same-sex couples in civil partnerships or marriages to receive blessings in church, stating that sexual activity should be confined to committed relationships, regardless of sexual orientation. GAFCON contends that this viewpoint alters the doctrine of sin and supports what they see as a sanctification of sin. Evangelical groups across the UK, including the Evangelical Council and Christian Concern, have also voiced disapproval, suggesting that Welby’s remarks represent a significant departure from Anglican orthodoxy. Some groups are forming alternative structures, like the Anglican Network in Europe, to support members who feel unable to remain in the CofE under these evolving doctrines.
Ukraine: possible outcome of US election result
The reelection of Donald Trump could significantly impact US support for Ukraine as the war with Russia continues. Throughout his campaign, Trump expressed doubts about the USA’s ongoing commitment to Kyiv, suggesting the possibility of pressuring Ukraine into a truce with Russia. This comes at a critical time; Russia is making advances in the Donbas region, and North Korean troops are reportedly bolstering Russian forces. The Biden administration has provided tens of billions in military and financial aid to Ukraine, but Trump has often praised Vladimir Putin and criticised Volodymyr Zelensky. He has claimed that the war would not have started under his presidency, and has promised to end the conflict swiftly. Zelensky, who was quick to congratulate Trump on his victory, must be concerned about the potential implications for his beleaguered country: American military aid to Ukraine currently accounts for 43% of the total.
Spain: mud thrown at king, fury directed at politicians
Following Spain’s deadliest natural disaster in recent memory, a visit by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia to Valencia became the target of public outrage, with protesters hurling mud at them. The recent devastating floods claimed at least 217 lives, with the toll expected to rise. When the royal couple appeared, alongside Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and other leaders, many locals expressed their fury at what they saw as inadequate warnings and slow government response. Protesters shouted ‘Murderers!’ and ‘Get out!’ at officials, blaming them for the disaster’s aftermath, and there were several clashes with police. Queen Letizia burst into tears after speaking to several grieving people. One commentator noted that the crowd's anger was directed at the politicians, not the royal family. Public resentment over the government's handling of the floods has intensified. One week after the floods struck, many people still did not have drinking water.
Germany: coalition government on brink of collapse
Germany’s ruling coalition faces a crisis after chancellor Olaf Scholz fired finance minister Christian Lindner, citing a breakdown of trust. Scholz, leader of the Social Democrats, said that Lindner, head of the liberal Free Democrats (FDP), had prioritised his party’s interests over the country’s needs. This move has left Scholz's coalition without a parliamentary majority; this might lead to a vote of confidence in January and early elections. Tensions within the coalition had been brewing for weeks, particularly over economic policies. Scholz and the Green party had pushed for increased public spending, especially to counter rising energy costs and defence needs following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but Lindner wants to pay for tax cuts by slashing welfare and social budgets and pushing back environmental targets. The political turmoil comes amid economic stagnation and growing uncertainties in Europe, compounded by Donald Trump’s election.
